Several Democratic governors are backing their colleagues in efforts to redraw congressional maps in a way that favors Democratic candidates for the upcoming midterm elections in 2026. This move is partially a response to pressures from President Trump and other GOP figures regarding Texas’ new boundaries.
Kansas Governor Laura Kelly expressed her support for California Governor Gavin Newsom and other Democratic governors who are open to modifying district maps to better serve their party’s candidates next year.
“I’ve never believed in unilateral disarmament, so even if I might hesitate to engage in certain strategies, I’m in favor of supporting my Democratic colleagues who are looking to level the playing field,” Kelly shared in an interview with ABC News, which was published on a Saturday morning.
“Even with the clear unconstitutional aspects of it, if the other side is moving in this direction, I think we have no choice but to respond in kind. After all, you don’t head into a battle without being prepared,” she noted, adding that she hopes the courts will intervene.
As chair of the Democratic Governors Association, Kelly was in Madison, Wisconsin, along with Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers and other Democrats, to consider summer policy issues.
Trump is optimistic about Republicans gaining five seats in Texas. Although redistricting typically occurs every decade, the current efforts in Texas could allow the GOP to secure these additional seats, aiding in maintaining a House majority.
On the previous Saturday, the Texas Legislative Election Commission’s Advanced Constituency Commission put forward a congressional map that could enable the GOP to gain five House seats next year.
This move has sparked backlash from Democrats, including Texas Democrats, who accused the GOP of attempting to fortify their position for the long term.
Evers stated that Wisconsin would not be altering its congressional lines, arguing that Democrats need to step up their efforts against Republican maneuvers.
“We haven’t altered the map here in Wisconsin. We’ve put in a lot of effort to achieve a fair map, and we’re committed to that…This is essential, in my view,” he said.
Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota, who was a running mate of Vice President Harris in the 2024 presidential race, remarked that Democrats are facing an unprecedented situation.
“We’re dealing with an administration that disregards standard rules. I think it’s crucial for states with the power to respond in kind,” Walz stated on Friday, emphasizing the urgency of their actions. “It’s a tough situation, but staying silent would just make things worse.”
Florida might follow Texas’ example, as the growing Republican presence in the state has shown a willingness to modify congressional district lines.
